The consultation, running from 19 October to 30 November 2026, focuses on proposals including reducing the Published Admission Number at Silsoe CofE VC Lower School from 60 to 30 Reception places from September 2028, reflecting lower demand and projected pupil numbers. Additionally, catchment areas are proposed to be removed for Houghton Regis Primary School, Thornhill Primary School, and Tithe Farm Primary School. In these cases, priority for places would be given to children living closest to the school.
These changes are a response to significant growth in the Houghton Regis area, including the Bidwell and Linmere developments. The council aims to make the admissions process fairer, clearer, and easier for families to understand. Cllr Gareth Mackey, Executive Member for Children and Families, stated, "We want to ensure our school admission arrangements continue to meet the needs of our growing communities and provide a fair and transparent process for families. These proposals reflect changing demand for school places, and population growth in parts of Central Bedfordshire. I would encourage parents, carers, schools and residents to take part in the consultation and share their views."
The proposed changes will not affect children already attending the schools. However, families applying for a Reception place from September 2028 at any of the consulted schools could be impacted if applications exceed available places. The consultation closes on 30 November 2026, with final admission arrangements to be determined by February 2027 and published by March 2027.
Residents can participate by completing the online questionnaire available on the Central Bedfordshire Council website.
